On The Land
Based in Akwesasne and with the help of Canada Council for the Arts, the IAC is able to deliver free, accessible workshops to people on the Akwesasne Mohawk Reserve.
Through this project we were able to host a dozen small gatherings including a visit by the Canada Council for the Arts, beading, clay pots and pipes, sewing, basketry, lodge canvas painting project, moccasin making and more. The funding provided Elder oversight by Condoled Bear Clan Mother of the Mohawk Nation, Louise McDonald Herne, her staff and her personal learning spaces in Akwesasne.
Fulfilling our mandate means prioritizing endangered and revitalized art forms such as working with clay. Alongside artist Katsitsionni Fox, the IAC is expanding the knowledge base surrounding the ancient art of clay and her uses. Katsitsionni gives us extensive historical context, visual images of ancient artifacts and works with participants to create their own clay cooking pots and sacred pipes.
With the help of professional artist, Marlana Thompson Baker Bak Okwaho Creations, participants were taught how to created a raised beadwork pendant. The Haudenosaunee are known for their unique raised beadwork and a long history of stories and survival rise from this artistic practice.
Youth from Akwesasne painted this massive canvas for their lodge with the IAC's On The Land project. Oherokon facilitates age-appropriate, culturally-based teachings and activities in safe, sacred spaces to nurture the emotional and physical well-being of Onkwehón:we (Indigenous) youth, families and communities.
Safe and Accessible Learning Spaces
IAC's priority is to create safe and accessible learning spaces. Through this project our classrooms were full, simply because they were 'on the land'.
We know that accessiblity and safety is a major factor in delivering traditional knowledge. We provide free transportation, food and quiet learning spaces for Akwesasronon.
We are grateful that Canada Council for the Arts made their way to Akwesasne to help artists better understand how they can be supported in their artistic dreams.
